(14/12/2016)
Dear President Schulz,
We are writing to you as fellow Members of the European Parliament and as Co-Presidents of the European Parliament Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup (ARDI) to call for dispensary measures against Marcel de Graaff MEP for his speech in plenary this morning.
Mr de Graaff accused migrants and refugees of systemically raping and murdering women and children. His speech was clearly racist and xenophobic and is unacceptable behaviour for a Member of European Parliament.
Therefore, we would urge you to take immediate action against Mr de Graaff. Such behaviour should not be tolerated and should be sanctioned. His actions are all the more irresponsible and dangerous given that he is a Member of the European Parliament and in the current context in Europe where the rights of migrants and refugees have come under attack.
Racism and xenophobia are direct violations of the principles of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. It is imperative that all of us fight intolerance and we hope you take action.
We look forward to receiving your reply and how you will take action.
Yours sincerely
Soraya Post MEP
Co-President of ARDI
Cécile Kashetu Kyenge MEP
Co-President of ARDI